The Los Angeles Dodgers got devastating news on Tuesday. 28-year-old star pitcher Walker Buehler underwent Tommy John surgery, the second of his career. The injury will keep him out the rest of this season and likely for all of 2023. It is a big blow to a Dodgers team with perennial World Series aspirations.
Buehler Has 2nd Tommy John Surgery
The Dodgers officially announced the news of Buehler’s operation Tuesday, which Dr. Neal ElAttrache performed.
Walker Buehler had a successful UCL reconstruction surgery and flexor tendon repair this afternoon performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) August 23, 2022
It is Buehler’s second UCL repair. His first came soon after the Dodgers initially signed him in 2015. That surgery sidelined him for a year and delayed his minor league development. He eventually made his big league debut in late 2017.
Losing Buehler long-term is tough news for Los Angeles as the two-time All-Star made 12 starts this season before his injury on June 10. During that time, he had a 6-3 record with a 4.02 ERA, 58 strikeouts and a 1.292 WHIP. He has a 46-16 career record with a 3.02 ERA.
Without Buehler, the Dodgers will have to reshuffle their rotation, especially in preparation for October. Assuming Kershaw returns from the IL eventually, Julio Urias will likely move into the second slot, and Tony Gonsolin should be third. Tyler Anderson and Dustin May could also be candidates to start postseason games. These starters will try to carry the Dodgers to a World Series title. Since the Dodgers already have the best record in baseball, it stands to reason this crew should give them a solid chance.
Since Buehler’s injury will keep him out for most of next year, keep an eye on Los Angeles looking to add another starter in the offseason. Urias seems to be a very capable #2 starter, but as we know, the Dodgers always strive to have an embarrassment of riches. And even with no more Buehler in the rotation this year, they still have one.
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Players mentioned:
Walker Buehler, Clayton Kershaw, Julio Urias, Tony Gonsolin, Tyler Anderson, Dustin May
